Viscosupplementation
Viscosupplementation
Hyaluronic acid is a key component of the joint fluid and gives the joint fluid viscoelastic properties.
This unique feature helps reduce joint friction during movement and adds cushioning to protect the cartilage during weight-bearing activity. With disease progression of osteoarthritis the concentration of hialuronic acid in joint fluid decreases. Viscosupplementation is a procedure in which hyaluronic acid is injectetd into the joint cavity in order to increase hyaluronic acid concentration in synovial fluid and as a result to slow down degeneration process.
Indications for injection:
- osteoarthritis,
- knee pain,
- limited range of motion in the joint,
- joint stiffness.
Benefits of injection:
- improvement of the lubricating properties of the joint fluid,
- pain relief,
- mobility improvement,
- stiffness relief.
Depending on the brand used, the treatment involves between 1 to 3 injections. If more than one injection is recommended, they are given one week apart. After treatment with hyaluronic acid patient shouldn’t do hard weight-bearing activity for two days. Hyaluronic acid injection is very safe and well tolerated procedure. Sometimes after injection the patient may experience temporary mild pain and swelling.
Dr. Marcin Goczewski performs hyaluronic acid injections only under ultrasound guidance, to ensure precise medicine injection and reduce the risk of complications.
